Outside Living: Terraces, Balconies, Roof Decks, Courtyards, Pocket Gardens, and Other Small Outdoor Spaces

A very nice survey of contemporary projects that incorporate outdoor spaces. The projects featured emphasize a fluid connection between indoors and outdoors. Each project includes a short description, many of which provide good insight into the design process. Photos are good quality (though there could have been more) and many of the projects include fully labeled plans as well as other drawings. The projects come from many parts of the world (sadly, none from Canada, especially Vancouver). Yes, some of the projects are very large 'dream homes' that don't really focus on 'small outdoor spaces', but many of the projects do feature smaller spaces. The focus sometimes veered too much toward architecture rather than landscape design, but the architectural insights were still valuable. Overall, an inspiring collection of well-described projects and a great source of ideas.

Yes, this is a beautifully illustrated book with lots of stunning photos of landscaped backyards. However, I bought the book thinking it was for small spaces, as per the subheading 'terraces, balconies, roof decks ...'. The photos shown by Amazon are the only few with smaller areas in the book. This book mainly contains architecturely designed modern houses with LARGE backyards from around the world. Not small by my definition.

Good sections on design and planting information.

I totally love this book! It has plenty of illustrations and loads of pictures that give ideas for those who are planning to create a home where the inside is linked to the outside garden and surroundings. It has plenty of great ideas. I highly recommend it.